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'Why the word "diffraction" rather
than "interference?" '
My first guess is it is historical with the
patterns seem experimentally first. These
patterns appear to be some kind of a
generalization of the pattern from diffraction
gratings. Thus the pattern seen by directing x
rays through crystals was called diffraction.
In my mind, the concepts of interference and
diffraction are deeply intertwined. Is it a
single slit interference pattern or a diffraction
pattern?
I cannot think of a case of diffraction without
interference.
But there is interference without diffraction.
Examples include a water ripple
thank with two oscillating objects in the water;
twin radio antennae, and maybe thin film
interference.